Savory West African Bean Stew with Rice
This hearty and flavorful West African Bean Stew is a cherished recipe passed down from my late husband, who hailed from Cameroon. Each time I prepare this dish, I am filled with gratitude for the rich cultural experience it represents. Packed with nutritious beans, this stew is not only filling but also versatile—feel free to add your choice of meat for a satisfying one-dish meal. Enjoy it with a loaf of freshly baked French bread for the perfect accompaniment. Dive into a bowl of comfort that brings warmth and joy to your table, while celebrating the beautiful flavors of West Africa.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
onion
1 large (chopped)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
tomato paste
2 tablespoons
olive oil or palm oil
1/4-1/2 cup
white beans (navy, great northern, black-eyed peas)
2 cans (8 oz each)
water
2 cups
salt
1 pinch
cayenne pepper
to taste
white rice
2-3 cups (cooked)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory West African Bean Stew with Rice?
It is a hearty, flavorful dish originating from Cameroon, packed with nutritious beans and traditionally served with rice.
What is the origin of this bean stew recipe?
This recipe was passed down from the creator's late husband, who was originally from Cameroon, West Africa.
Is this West African bean stew vegetarian?
Yes, the base recipe is vegetarian as it focuses on beans and vegetable-based oils.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, the stew is versatile and you can add your choice of meat to create a satisfying one-dish meal.
What types of beans are recommended for this stew?
You can use white beans like navy beans, great northern beans, or black-eyed peas.
What kind of oil should I use?
The recipe suggests using either olive oil or palm oil.
How much oil is required for the stew?
The recipe calls for between 1/4 and 1/2 cup of oil.
What type of rice is served with this dish?
It is typically served with 2 to 3 cups of cooked white rice.
Is this bean stew spicy?
The spice level is adjustable as the cayenne pepper is added 'to taste'.
What size bean cans are needed?
The recipe requires two 8 oz cans of beans.
How do I prepare the onion for this recipe?
You should take one large onion and chop it.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires one minced garlic clove.
What kind of bread pairs well with this stew?
A loaf of freshly baked French bread is a perfect accompaniment to this bowl of comfort.
How much tomato paste should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of tomato paste.
Is this dish considered a healthy meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe because it is nutrient-dense and filling.
How much water is added to the stew?
You should add 2 cups of water.
Is this a traditional Cameroonian dish?
Yes, the recipe celebrates the beautiful flavors of West Africa and specifically Cameroonian heritage.
Can I use black-eyed peas for this recipe?
Yes, black-eyed peas are one of the suggested bean varieties for this stew.
What is the primary seasoning used?
The stew is seasoned with salt, garlic, and cayenne pepper.
How much salt is needed?
A pinch of salt is used, which can be adjusted to preference.
Is this a good recipe for families?
Yes, it is categorized as a family meal that brings warmth and joy to the table.
Can I use navy beans for this stew?
Yes, navy beans are a great option for the bean component of this dish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients: onion, garlic, tomato paste, oil, beans, water, salt, cayenne, and rice.
Is this stew considered comfort food?
Yes, it is specifically described as a bowl of comfort that brings warmth to your table.
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The garlic should be finely minced before being added to the stew.
Can I use great northern beans?
Yes, great northern beans are explicitly mentioned as a suitable ingredient.
Is this recipe a cultural experience?
Yes, the author notes the rich cultural experience it represents and celebrates West African flavors.
What type of meal category does this fall into?
It is categorized as a West African bean stew and a one-dish meal.
How is the rice prepared?
The white rice should be cooked before serving it with the bean stew.
Does this recipe use fresh or canned beans?
The recipe specifically lists 2 cans (8 oz each) of beans for convenience.